Darshana Shrestha | President, FWEAN

It is with deep humility, gratitude, and a strong sense of responsibility that I assume the role of President of the Federation of Woman Entrepreneurs’ Associations of Nepal (FWEAN).

For nearly two decades, FWEAN has been at the heart of my personal and professional journey. My prime years of learning, service, and leadership have been devoted to the economic empowerment of women entrepreneurs affiliated with this organization. Along this shared journey, I have learned, grown, and walked alongside extraordinary women across Nepal, building not only enterprises, but confidence, leadership, and hope. Standing here today is not an individual achievement; it is the outcome of collective vision, trust, and perseverance.

“When women entrepreneurs are empowered, economies grow stronger, communities become resilient, and futures are transformed.”

FWEAN’s mission to Catalyze the entrepreneurial ecosystem and build enabling environments for potential and existing women entrepreneurs, continues to guide all our efforts. Through policy advocacy, enterprise development, leadership strengthening, and ecosystem building, FWEAN contributes directly to global priorities, including SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Our work also aligns strongly with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles by promoting inclusive growth, ethical governance, responsible entrepreneurship, and sustainable business practices.

As FWEAN enters this new chapter, my vision is not to restart, but to build upon our proud legacy while preparing for the future. My tenure will be guided by two clear visions:

Strengthening Foundations and Building Together

We will reinforce transparent governance, disciplined systems, empowered provincial, district chapters and members, and inclusive processes, because the growth of our chapters and members is the success of FWEAN. When we build together, we grow together, living FWEAN’s belief that working together leads to winning together.

Expanding Horizons and Leading the Change

With strong foundations in place, we will extend our reach, connecting women entrepreneurs to new markets, fostering innovation, strengthening digital and BDC services, and positioning FWEAN as a leading voice in local, national, regional, and global policy dialogue.

This vision will be implemented through a five-pillar roadmap focusing on organizational excellence, chapter strengthening and membership growth, advocacy, partnerships and representation, impactful programs and leadership development, and enhanced visibility through branding and digital transformation.

I am deeply fortunate to be supported by a diverse and experienced Board, committed provincial and district representatives who connect us to grassroots realities, and above all, our members, the true soul of FWEAN. Their courage, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit give meaning to everything we do for the nation.

I extend my sincere gratitude to the Government of Nepal, development partners, UN agencies, embassies, private sector collaborators, and national and international allies for your continued trust and partnership. Your support enables us to amplify women’s voices, influence policies, and strengthen Nepal’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

With the trust placed in me, I commit to serving with integrity, clarity, and unwavering dedication. I invite all stakeholders, our board, chapters, members, partners, and well-wishers to walk with us on this journey.

Together, we will strengthen our foundations and expand our horizons so that women entrepreneurs in Nepal not only survive, but thrive, lead, and drive meaningful change in our economy, society, and future because when we Work Together, We Win Together.